--- Forwarded Message from Arjen Florijn <[log in to unmask]> --- >Date: Thu, 30 May 2002 11:00:13 +0200 >To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum <[log in to unmask]> >From: Arjen Florijn <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: Re: #6700 Chinese characters ------------------ When I once visited Hong Kong, I bought two volumes 'Fun with Chinese characters' ISBN 9971 4 6072 6 and 9971 4 6073 4. If they are still available, buy them. From the preface: "Chinese characters are generally built up from 214 root characters or radical elements. These comprise the basic building blocks for innumerable compound characters. Some of these radicals or prim itives are capable of standing independently as characters. Others function as components of compound characters. In combination, they assume variant or contracted forms. By understanding the basic ineanings of the elements that form a character, it is possible to discern the significance of the whole character. Hence, the importance of studying the radicals. This collection of cartoons introduces systematically the more commonly used radical elements and the compounds they build up, together with related or associated characters. As a mnemonic aid, it analyses each character, tracing its evolutionary development from the original seal character to the regular and simplified forms. Based on authoritative source materials, both Chinese and English, it draws inspiration from the lofty, yet down-to-earth, wit and wisdom of the Chinese mind. Above all, it takes an appreciative look at Chinese written characters through the imaginative and discerning eye of a cartoonist. While every effort has been made to be as accurate as possible, strict precision of representation is by no means the overriding concern; for humour and delight has been given more than just an instrumental importance. Originally published as a regular feature of The Straits Times Bilingual Page, it is now presented as a collection and an appetizer to introduce readers to the delightful and fascinating world of pictographs and ideographs. Have fun, then, with Chinese characters!" _______________________________________________________ [log in to unmask] _______________________________________________________ A.F. Florijn Leerstoelgroep Tweedetaalverwerving Spuistraat 210 1012 VT Amsterdam tel. +31 20 5253846 secr. 5254615 / fax 5253021 tel. thuis +31 20 7700367 _______________________________________________________